6 Surprising Life Lessons I Learned in Japan 

AIJ : "I'm afraid of public speaking" AIJ : "I know what you might be thinking, 'but you're a youtuber'" Me : "No.... but you're a teacher...."

Foreign teacher begins his journey in Japan with students who don't like him. He wins them over through the power of.... BEATBOXING Why is this not an anime yet?

Just said out loud, by myself in confinement, "that was a good video". Nice.

"The ultimate failure is not learning from failure." That's such a great quote, ima keep that one in my back pocket.

I'm so proud that he put the é in Pokécunts omg 😭

1. Take risks and experiment with life 2. Don't take yourself too seriously 3. Try to be original and different 4. Learn from your failures 5. Even if you don't reach your goal, enjoy the journey 6. Don't be affected by the negative, try and turn it into something positive

I was really taken by surprise when you shared that you forgot your speech! It's wonderful that you didn't crawl into a hole and hide for too long after that. You learned from that experience and made a comeback and even won the competition! That truly deserves a standing ovation. This video was very honest and hits close to home-- reminding me of all the lessons I learned when I made the choice to teach in Japan. Take care.

2:50 lesson one: Breaking outside your comfort zone unlocks your potential 6:10 lesson two: building rapport makes teaching [or anything else possibly] a lot easier 8:37 lesson three: et original ideas be your guiding star 10:40 lesson four: the ultimate failure is not learning from failure 15:39 lesson five: aim for the moon, and if you miss... 17:40 lesson six: flip negative situations to your advantage (look for the opportunities)

The first time I saw a video of you I couldnt listen to you for more then 2min without getting bored, now 4 years later I sit here and 22min just fly by.

I’ve never smiled so much watching a RU-vidr before, normally they are so cringey and annoying but I love how genuinely funny and sweet you are. Congrats on 1M!

5:05 anyone else see that guy sleeping in the back?

Absolutely incredible. My girlfriend and I have loved your channel for years and your achievements are so incredible we can't help but feel full of pride watching you go from showing off your first apartment to the sleek, sophisticated, professional content you put out now. It's odd to feel proud of someone you've never met, but you've really put yourself out there and it's impressive how far you've come!

i cant believe beatboxing was the secret to being a teacher

THANK you to everyone for being part of the Abroad in Japan channel! I honestly can't believe we hit 1M subscribers! Whether you're a newcomer who's stumbled across here, or veteran who's weathered the storm! I hope there's at least one good lesson in here somewhere? (Mine is either lesson 4 or 6). If you have a life lesson or experience that changed your perspective on life, share away below! Keen to hear more! (I'll be reading all the comments on this thread).

Guess you never stop teaching even after you stopped being an English teacher. Those are really legit life lessons! uplifting definitely. And thanks to that, I am now a subscriber.

As someone who used to suffer from panic attacks regularly, it really bugs me how so many people call being “uncomfortably nervous” a panic attack. You described them well though, I can tell you actually experienced panic attacks and not just “I’m nervous and I don’t like it must be a panic attack” They are horrific and I wouldn’t wish them on anyone, as you say

Only Chris can make a meaningful life lesson video this funny

5:06 The guy sleeping in the back is great.

The way you flip those negative comments are absolutely brilliant! By far, this is the most serious, promising, remarkable and this is my favorite vid of yours! It brings tears to my eyes! ❤️

This guy's humor is sublime. Reminds me of a Guy Ritchie film.

Anxiously waiting for the release of Ryotaro The Movie

"I bought these noodles, because somebody told me I was responsible for the American revolutionary war" Lmao!

2:50 Take risks and experiment with life 6:10 Don't take yourself too seriously 8:37 Try to be original and different 10:40 Learn from your failures 15:39 Even if you don't reach your goal, enjoy the journey 17:40 Don't be affected by the negative, try and turn it into something positive

One of the most valueable videos I've seen this year - thanks for being that honest ! Your videos are very much appreciated ! Cheers from Switzerland

Chris doesn't upload often, but when he does It is like Christmas!

#AskAbroad I love you, even though you started the American Revolutionary war

Dude you described panic attacks so accurately. They are absolutely horrible and can 100% agree that I wouldn't wish it on anyone. I've been going through it myself recently, and you constantly fear when the next when will happen. So good to hear that you overcame the challenges in your way and made it happen man! Keep it up!

Chris, you are truly an inspiration! It’s so refreshing to see a positive RU-vidr in a generation of self centered egotistical whiners. Thank you for sharing your life, reflections and wonderful wit. I really look forward to your videos.

The Queen would be proud of you

Natsuke the movie: Heartfelt memoir of one of the wackiest, sweetest Japanese man you’ve ever met and the way he achieved his dreams in his own crazy way. Ryotaro the movie: Explosions and dogs. #AskAbroad I guess?

Hey man, this video is on point. I've been depressed these past few months and I've decided to change my life for the better like how you changed yours. Watching your videos helped me with my situation and when I am feeling down, your videos genuinely makes me happy. I hope life gives you more blessings and thank you for the smiles that you've given to your viewers.

I still come back to this video sometimes for the rare moments of vulnerability and honesty and growth that shine through Chris. Usually I'm here for the fun jokes and informational videos, but this one really inspires me and picks me up. Especially the speech contest story. Thanks Chris :)

You going into that contest again after what happened the first time was the craziest yet most inspirational thing I've ever seen. I can't believe you actually did that. I would crawl into a cave and never come out if that happened to me. That is truly the difference between successful people and failures.

Would you ever consider making a second channel dedicated to teaching Japanese? Me and my friends dream is to visit for a while and we both love your channel. #askabroad

The onset of a panic attack (especially if you've never experienced them early on in life, or for the first time) are absolutely terrifying. Especially because you don't know what's happening. The first time I had one I thought I had been poisoned or was going into a seizure or diabetic shock and called 911. Then afterward, the memory of the experience messes with your psychology and constantly threatens to destroy your confidence in certain situations. But I'm glad that you got over it, breaking the mental shackles that can trigger such episodes.

I found your channel earlier this evening as one suggested by RU-vid - the first one I watched was the haunted inn/ghost Wagyu one. This is about the fifth or so one I've watched up to now and they've all been great. I mean REALLY great! Japan is a country I'd love to visit. Whether I'll ever manage I don't know, but for now I'll be subscribing to your channel and keeping an eye out for new videos from you. Thank you for making this evening go with a smile.

Better then 95% of the selfhelp content.

I love your content man. You're talented

I've suffered from panic attacks most of my life and that was probably one of the best explanations I've seen - in the way that you filmed it. It's like suddenly you're in a horror film and you know something very awful is about to happen. Except then it doesn't and you realise you're just in your living room on a perfectly normal day and you think "What the fuck was all that about?"

Most spiders are cool. I love it when a Huntsman sets up camp in my place. They’re mostly harmless and are way more scared of you than you could ever be of it. But they keep annoying pests away without being annoying themselves. Win!

broad ive been going through a hard time and your videos have helped me out so thank you and keep up the good work. and you are not fat.

Of all the six tips, what impressed me the most was the daily five to six hours of studying, for a solid year, to make your speech in Japanese. That's inspiring.

Anyone who has gone through having panic attacks, understands what that is like and the huge fear you have to work through. It's amazing you got through that to follow your dreams :) very inspiring.

You’re honestly amazing and so impressive. Before Covid, I had a Japan teaching job lined up. It’s all stopped now (because they all seem to have put hiring on hold) but eventually I’ll keep trying. I really hope I can make my experience half as rewarding as yours.

#AskAbroad Can you do a video spoken entirely in Japanese but with snarky english subtitles?

I discovered you 3 months ago and I binge watched all your videos in ....... two days Congrats booooi I want to move to Japan aswell

日本人の俺でもこのチャンネルは大好きですぜ。クリスの英国風ユーモアが抜群におもしろくてそれが一番の理由だけど、クリス自身ちゃんと悩みを抱えもしてかつそれを乗り越えてきたんだなとこの動画で知れてなおさら好きになりました。 I might be the only Japanese person who consistently watches your videos on this channel but that's because I love it, not because I wanna be different from the mainstream. The biggest reason why I love is your British sense of humor that wouldn't let me stop laughing for generations, but now that I know you have faced challenges and difficulties in your life and overcome them, I like you even more. Great video, Chris.

I so appreciate your insights, Chris! The idea to turn hateful comments into something funny is genius. Thank you for the vulnerability in sharing your story and great tips!

Thank you for constantly growing yourself and your skills. Just don't grow your waist size before your giant bike trip. Hahahaha

Dude, congrats. You are an industry leader mate. Keep it up.

This man never ceases to impress me and he's bloddy hilarious 😂😂

I am very impressed how you managed to win this speech contest. You are so right about not giving up. Kudos to you - and thank you for the inspiration.

#ThankYouAbroadInJapan First off, CONGRATS ON A MILLION! I've been a proud fan with a passion for Japan (that rhymes) since 2014. Since the start of high school, I've developed with a lifelong passion of some day exploring japan, and becoming a game designer, capable of inspiring players with an interactive story of the ages (Like a new Final Fantasy)! As of today, I am in my first year of college perusing these very dreams, with so much more to learn. I couldn't think of a question for the life of me, so I think this a more fitting response. I just want to say thank you for being such a significant pillar in giving my life such an incredible sense of direction starting at the young age of 14. From what I've seen, RU-vid is a way for creators to share their inspirational videos with a world of people ready to be inspired. And in my opinion, you're paving the way for the rest of the world, as well as myself. I hope I can inspire peoples' lives in my own way, just have you have in your way. For that, I once again say, thank you!

Another great video from the greatest geography teacher I know.

You are such an inspiration man! Ted ex talk, being a teacher for 3 years in japan, escaping UK to follow your dreams. And now you are here making videos in japan doing what you like, so much respect man! I will be 3 aug in japan first for the time, i started watching your videos to learn about japan, but now i am just watching you and your opinoins about things and your road to succes. You are a great guy, wish you lot of luck and happines. Dont mind my bad engelish , i am from Amsterdam

AIJ: “you can’t hurt my feelings, I’m a teacher” you’re hilarious man. I love your positivity! It always brightens my day

When in doubt, watch "School of Rock" and all your questions will be answered

Ripe fruit is what they meant to write. But i'll be having nightmares about rape fruit for a long time now.

I have loved your videos for years, I think you’re just fab, you make me belly laugh with every single video, thank you. And you are gorgeous! Always have confidence - you’re doing a great job. I’m booking my trip to Japan soon & your channel has helped me SO SO much!!

I love you Chris, I come back to this video to re assure myself and keep that inspiration to learn and experience Japanese culture!

Still the best channel on youtube.

A new Abroad in Japan video came out, this is a good day

"like a fucking dementor had floated into the room" has got to be my favourite description of a panic attack. 4:00 Love his humour.

5:05 notice the dude behind him XD

#AskAbroad if you had to would you rather eat Rape Fruit or Man Bread?

#AskAbroad Will you ever feature Natsuki and Ryotaro in the same video?

What an interesting and encouraging video. Congrats on facing your fears, overcoming them and achieving what you have so far. You have much to be proud of. Good on you!

Thank you so much, Chris! I've stumbled upon your videos some time last month (the "A night in a haunted inn" one was my first one) and I've been watching them all since. Your videos really brighten up my day. Especially after watching some of your more personal videos (like this), I can see a bit (well, quite a bit tbh) of myself in your former self and it's encouraging to see how far you've come by taking steps out of your comfort zone. So, again, thank you for uploading these videos and inspiring people to also take a step out of the comfort zone!

It’s 2am and I just finished watching this. Was worth it.

#askabroad Dear A Broad in Japan, How come there aren't any videos of Natsuki and Ryotaro together? Are they mortal enemies, or would they be just too much awesomeness in one video?

Ryotaro's next tactic to assassinate Chris - throwing a bunch of spiders in his room.

Sharing your experiences is actually helping me with my issues. Cheers, Chris.

lmao that dude behind you at 5:05

#askabroad Do you plan on staying in Japan till your older years? Or do you have other places in mind to live in?

I've become totally addicted to your videos over the last month and actually started learning Japanese due to you. So thanks for doing what you're doing and keep it up, please!

Great channel Chris. Interesting, informative & insightful.Keep up the good work!

I hope you are OK and safe from the earthquake from last night

wow... can't believe it's already been 6 years. I subscribed to this channel when I was 15, I'm 21 now :') time flies congrats on 1 million subs! keep up the great work

Your videos always make me smile, but this one especially. Your humor is so refreshing! I binge watched a ton of AIJ videos the first week since I'm stuck at home, and since I have slowed down to enjoy them because I genuinely look forward to them.

I loved this video. It was motivating to hear how you investigated and then addressed your speech failure, grew from it, and did the hard work. Thank you for sharing!

Chris, Congrats on 1 million subscribers and 6 years of experiences. Also thanks for sharing the wisdom you've gained over the last 6 years. Welcome to getting older. :-) #askabroad: Did your award winning speech on always wanting to become rich, also include some wisdom that "riches" can be measured in more ways than how much money you have in a bank account? Hopefully, you've figured that out already. Keep up the entertaining content here on RU-vid. Here's to your 2nd million subscribers.

#askabroad : What do you actually do now? Does youtube cover your living costs? If yes, do you think it's sustainable? Do you have a long term plan? Stay in Japan forever? Have a family? Progress the career somehow? I have been following you for a long time, and was just wondering whether you are doing ok in your life in general. Hope this question is not too personal :) I recently quit my job to put myself into "you can become anything" position again. I can easily live from savings for some time until I figure something out :) One of the stimulants would be a trip to Japan in October (for the second time)!

That was a great video with some really insightful lessons! I've got to say Chris, you have a natural way of keeping people interested just by the way you talk and go from one topic to the next with bits of humour in between. You can tell that you put more work into producing your videos than the average RU-vidr, which really sets them apart in quality! Thanks for the life lessons and the laughs!

It’s so awesome to see you grow and achieve 1M subs (hiting 2M pretty soon) after so many years. I also moved to a different country in SEA and your videos really keep me going! They are Inspiring, and made me visiting Japan part of my bucket list. Keep it up and all the best!

You just come across as an all-round nice guy and kind person. I discovered your videos a few days ago ( I’m coming to Japan in March , and researching everything out there incessantly ) and am addicted . It’s the first time I’ve actually had the patience to watch an entire video . I really like that they’re funny without detracting from the information being given. Thanks for sharing, and keep up the good work...cheers from the land down under

#AskAbroad Do you think you might have oversold the likelihood of our questions being answered? You have 1 mil subs now, that's still going to be a ton of questions asked. Congrats btw!

I did not expect this to be the motivational video I actually needed... Thanks for your amazing and honest content!

Fantastic video Chris, some really great insights here. Thank you!

A hero without a cape, this guy is my favorite youtuber......i swear he's the only one that keeps me smiling, laughing, and entertained when i watch his videos..thankyou for everything..congrats on the 1 million subs ...you deserve that and more..

One of the most positive RU-vidrs I've ever had the pleasure of following since last year. Kudos!

Thank you for being so upfront about anxiety and real life problems, love all your videos I watched this today even though I've seen it beforehand and it really is what I needed, thank you for being you!

Here I am watching this video almost two years after it was put out and it still has some of the most valuable information I have come across on RU-vid, if not in life. Great video, keep it up! Hope you're doing well during!

Damn wtf , I never knew you could beatbox , you sir just earned yourself a subscriber☺️

Congrats! Can't wait for the epic bike ride across Japan!

This was so great, i learned a lot! Thank you Chris ❤️🙌

Dude, your videos are amazing. When I watch them, I don't feel like wasting my time, I really gain knowledge and also something really useful.

20 min of abroad in Japan? Is it Christmas??

This man gives me hope in humanity not too much.... but he does

Your sincerity really made this video for me! Thank you for your honesty, this feels like talking to a dear friend!

I’m very grateful to you. I find you very inspiring and even though Covid stopped me from thinking about traveling, I find you and your content to reignite a passion.